The Astros, seven straight times in the ALCS, stand 7-19, and just two teams have risen from similar starts to make the playoffs. Yet, theres still plenty of pedigree, and the division looks open with the Rangers and Mariners only off to so-so starts. So Houston holds hope. I think were going to be fine, Astros GM Dana Brown said by phone Wednesday, before the team lost twice more. Were 5/ games out [now 6/], and weve got 138 [now 136] games left. The record is a shock . Star third baseman Alex Bregman is struggling, former MVP Jose Abreu looks done, and just about every starter has been out. Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros flies out against the Chicago Cubs. Getty Images I cant recall a time when all Stephen Drew Jersey five of the starters were on the IL prior to May 1, noted Brown, a former Seton Hall star whos been in the game 30-plus years. Abreus playing so badly theyre going to use Jon Singleton more, and perhaps summon prospect Joey Loperfido (the pro homer leader with 12). Abreus hitting .065. Maybe well give him some time off, just to see if somebody else gets hot, Brown said. More From Jon Heyman The vaunted relief trio of Bryan Abreu, Ryan Pre sly and Josh Hader are all struggling, too, with Pre sly and Hader logging ERAs well above 7.00. Weve got three guys who could close for most teams, and weve got six blown saves, Brown said. If you flip those games, were in first place. Astros relief pitcher Josh Hader watches the two-run home run by Toronto Blue Jays Davis Schneider. AP Their history provides hope. Said Brown: Im at the intersection of disappointment and optimism. Cade Cavalli Jersey
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